Method and apparatus for handling uplink grant in random access response

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatuses for wireless communication are provided. In an aspect, an uplink grant is received which includes a resource block assignment. The resource block assignment with a length adjustment is interpreted based on an uplink bandwidth configuration. In another aspect, a length adjustment is determined for an uplink grant. The length adjustment is based on an uplink bandwidth configuration. A resource block assignment is encoded based on the length adjustment, and the uplink grant including the resource block assignment is transmitted.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present Application for Patent is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/501,235, entitled “Handling Uplink Grant inRandom Access Response” filed Jul. 10, 2009, which claims priority toProvisional Application No. 61/088,308 entitled “A Method and Apparatusfor Handling Uplink Grant in Wireless Communication System” filed Aug.12, 2008, all of which are assigned to the assignee hereof and herebyexpressly incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The exemplary and non-limiting aspects described herein relate generallyto wireless communications systems, methods, computer program productsand devices, and more specifically to techniques for formatting anuplink grant.

BACKGROUND

Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide varioustypes of communication content such as voice, data, and so on. Thesesystems may be multiple-access systems capable of supportingcommunication with multiple users by sharing the available systemresources (e.g., bandwidth and transmit power). Examples of suchmultiple-access systems include code division multiple access (CDMA)systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems, frequencydivision multiple access (FDMA) systems, and orthogonal frequencydivision multiple access (OFDMA) systems.

Generally, a wireless multiple-access communication system cansimultaneously support communication for multiple wireless terminals.Each terminal communicates with one or more base stations viatransmissions on the forward and reverse links. The forward link (ordownlink) refers to the communication link from the base stations to theterminals, and the reverse link (or uplink) refers to the communicationlink from the terminals to the base stations. This communication linkmay be established via a single-in-single-out, multiple-in-signal-out ora multiple-in-multiple-out (MIMO) system.

Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) is one of thethird-generation (3G) cell phone technologies. UTRAN, short for UMTSTerrestrial Radio Access Network, is a collective term for the Node-B'sand Radio Network Controllers which make up the UMTS core network. Thiscommunications network can carry many traffic types from real-timeCircuit Switched to IP based Packet Switched. The UTRAN allowsconnectivity between the UE (user equipment) and the core network. TheUTRAN contains the base stations, which are called Node Bs, and RadioNetwork Controllers (RNC). The RNC provides control functionalities forone or more Node Bs. A Node B and an RNC can be the same device,although typical implementations have a separate RNC located in acentral office serving multiple Node B′s. Despite the fact that they donot have to be physically separated, there is a logical interfacebetween them known as the Iub. The RNC and its corresponding Node Bs arecalled the Radio Network Subsystem (RNS). There can be more than one RNSpresent in an UTRAN.

3GPP LTE (Long Term Evolution) is the name given to a project within theThird Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to improve the UMTS mobilephone standard to cope with future requirements. Goals include improvingefficiency, lowering costs, improving services, making use of newspectrum opportunities, and better integration with other openstandards. The LTE system is described in the Evolved UTRA (EUTRA) andEvolved UTRAN (EUTRAN) series of specifications.

The system may utilize a resource assignment scheme in which a UE mayrequest for resources whenever the UE has data to send on the uplink. Abase station may process each resource request from the UE and may senda grant of resources to the UE. The UE may then transmit data on theuplink using the granted resources. However, uplink resources areconsumed to send requests for resources, and downlink resources areconsumed to send grants of resources.

While the size of an uplink grant on a physical downlink control channel(PDCCH) may be bandwidth dependent, the size of an uplink grant in arandom access response (RAR) is fixed. Accordingly, there is a need toallocate an uplink grant in a random access response (RAR) that isresponsive to different system bandwidths without adversely impactingrandom access channel (RACH) procedures for UEs.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basicunderstanding of some aspects of the disclosed aspects. This summary isnot an extensive overview and is intended to neither identify key orcritical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purposeis to present some concepts of the described features in a simplifiedform as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presentedlater.

In an aspect, a method for wireless communication is provided whichcomprises receiving an uplink grant that includes a resource blockassignment and interpreting the resource block assignment with a lengthadjustment based on an uplink bandwidth configuration.

In another aspect, an apparatus for wireless communication is providedwhich includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the atleast one processor. The at least one processor is configured to receivean uplink grant that includes a resource block assignment, and tointerpret the resource block assignment with a length adjustment basedon an uplink bandwidth configuration.

In still another aspect, a computer program product is provided whichincludes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Thecomputer-readable medium comprises code for causing at least onecomputer to receive an uplink grant that includes a resource blockassignment, and code for causing at least one computer to interpret theresource block assignment with a length adjustment based on an uplinkbandwidth configuration.

In yet another aspect, an apparatus for wireless communication isprovided. The apparatus comprises means for receiving an uplink grantthat includes a resource block assignment and means for interpreting theresource block assignment with a length adjustment based on an uplinkbandwidth configuration.

In a further aspect, a method for wireless communication is providedwhich includes determining a length adjustment for an uplink grant. Thelength adjustment is based on an uplink bandwidth configuration. Themethod also includes encoding a resource block assignment based on thelength adjustment and transmitting the uplink grant that includes theresource block assignment.

In another aspect, an apparatus for wireless communication is providedwhich includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the atleast one processor. The at least one processor is configured todetermine a length adjustment for an uplink grant. The length adjustmentis based on an uplink bandwidth configuration. The at least oneprocessor is also configured to encode a resource block assignment basedon the length adjustment, and to transmit the uplink grant that includesthe resource block assignment.

In yet another aspect, a computer program product is provided whichincludes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Thecomputer-readable medium comprises code for causing at least onecomputer to determine a length adjustment for an uplink grant. Thelength adjustment is based on an uplink bandwidth configuration. Thecomputer-readable medium also includes code for causing the at least onecomputer to encode a resource block assignment based on the lengthadjustment, and code for causing the at least one computer to transmitthe uplink grant that includes the resource block assignment.

In still another additional aspect, an apparatus for wirelesscommunication is provided which includes means for determining a lengthadjustment for an uplink grant. The length adjustment is based on anuplink bandwidth configuration. The apparatus also includes means forencoding a resource block assignment based on the length adjustment, andmeans for transmitting the uplink grant that includes the resource blockassignment.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, one or moreaspects comprise the features hereinafter fully described andparticularly pointed out in the claims. The following description andthe annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative aspectsand are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which theprinciples of the aspects may be employed. Other advantages and novelfeatures will become apparent from the following detailed descriptionwhen considered in conjunction with the drawings and the disclosedaspects are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, nature, and advantages of the present disclosure willbecome more apparent from the detailed description set forth below whentaken in conjunction with the drawings in which like referencecharacters identify correspondingly throughout and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a communication system employing aencoding of adjusted (e.g., truncated, expanded) random access responses(RAR) by a base station for accommodating system bandwidth;

FIG. 2 illustrates block diagrams of an adjusted-size RAR of FIG. 1achieved by truncation of an Uplink (UL) grant;

FIG. 3 illustrates block diagrams of an adjusted-size RAR of FIG. 1achieved by expansion of an Uplink (UL) grant;

FIG. 4 illustrates a diagram of a multiple access wireless communicationsystem according to one aspect for variable length random accessresponses;

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a communication systemfor supporting variable length random access responses;

FIG. 6 illustrates a timing diagram for a methodology for User Equipment(UE) requesting uplink resources and interpreting a random accessresponse (RAR) from an evolved Base Node (eNB);

FIG. 7 illustrates a flow diagram of a methodology for random accessresponse (RAR);

FIG. 8 illustrates a flow diagram of a methodology for truncated randomaccess response;

FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of user equipment having modules forreceiving and interpreting truncated random access responses; and

FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of base node having modules fortruncating and transmitting random access responses.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A wireless communication system provides for a random access channel(RACH) procedure for user equipment (UE) to request access to an uplinkchannel. From a physical layer perspective, an evolved Base Station(eNB) responds with a random access response (RARP) which may echoes thedetected preamble, a fixed length message containing an uplink grant,such as 21 bits or 20 bits with a reserved bit for future extensions,and other fields, such as timing advance and Cell Radio NetworkTemporary Identifier (C-RNTI). In answer to a need that exists for anRAR to accommodate variations in uplink system bandwidth, an approach toencoding a truncated resource block (RB) assignment of the RAR in mannerin which the UE can interpret the RAR for any system bandwidth. Thereby,needs for achieving RACH procedures and existing channel resources canbe realized.

Various aspects are now described with reference to the drawings. In thefollowing description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specificdetails are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding ofone or more aspects. It may be evident, however, that the variousaspects may be practiced without these specific details. In otherinstances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagramform in order to facilitate describing these aspects.

As used in this application, the terms “component”, “module”, “system”,and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, eitherhardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or softwarein execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited tobeing, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, anexecutable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By wayof illustration, both an application running on a server and the servercan be a component. One or more components may reside within a processand/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on onecomputer and/or distributed between two or more computers.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example,instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as“exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other aspects or designs.

Furthermore, the one or more versions may be implemented as a method,apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard programming and/orengineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware, or anycombination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosedaspects. The term “article of manufacture” (or alternatively, “computerprogram product”) as used herein is intended to encompass a computerprogram accessible from any computer-readable device, carrier, or media.For example, computer readable media can include but are not limited tomagnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips. . . ), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk(DVD) . . . ), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., card,stick). Additionally it should be appreciated that a carrier wave can beemployed to carry computer-readable electronic data such as those usedin transmitting and receiving electronic mail or in accessing a networksuch as the Internet or a local area network (LAN). Of course, thoseskilled in the art will recognize many modifications may be made to thisconfiguration without departing from the scope of the disclosed aspects.

Various aspects will be presented in terms of systems that may include anumber of components, modules, and the like. It is to be understood andappreciated that the various systems may include additional components,modules, etc. and/or may not include all of the components, modules,etc. discussed in connection with the figures. A combination of theseapproaches may also be used. The various aspects disclosed herein can beperformed on electrical devices including devices that utilize touchscreen display technologies and/or mouse-and-keyboard type interfaces.Examples of such devices include computers (desktop and mobile), smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other electronic devicesboth wired and wireless.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a communication system 100 of a basestation, depicted as an evolved base node (eNB) 102, communicates via anover-the-air (OTA) link 104 with user equipment (UE) 106. The eNB 102monitors a random access channel (RACH) 108 for requests 110 from UE 106for communicating on an uplink shared data channel 112. In response, theeNB transmits a Random Access Response 116 of a shared downlink channel(DL) 118. Specific to the request 110, the RAR 116 contains a preamble120, uplink grant and other fields [see above] 122. Responsive to theuplink system bandwidth selected, a RAR UL grant encoder 124 of the eNB102 can advantageously truncate the data in the RAR 122 in a predictableway to create an adjusted-size RAR 122′ that an RAR UL grant decoder 126at the UE 106 can interpret the full information for higher layerprocessing.

In FIG. 2, a first example of an adjusted-size RAR 122′ (FIG. 1) isachieved by truncating an uplink (UL) grant 200 of a size fixed by anupper layer that supplies or consumes the information. In particular,truncated bits 202 are removed to leave a truncated UL grant 204 with animplicit understanding of constraints used in truncation such that arecipient can reconstruct the fixed-size UL grant 200. Thereby, the ULgrant information can be conveyed on a system bandwidth of reduced size.

In FIG. 3, a second example of an adjusted-size RAR 122′ (FIG. 1) isachieved by adding inserted bits 302 to a fixed-size UL grant 304 toachieve an expanded RAR 306 of a size appropriate for a larger systembandwidth.

It should be appreciated that wireless communication systems are widelydeployed to provide various types of communication content such asvoice, data, and so on. These systems may be multiple-access systemscapable of supporting communication with multiple users by sharing theavailable system resources (e.g., bandwidth and transmit power).Examples of such multiple-access systems include code division multipleaccess (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems,frequency division multiple access (FDMA) systems, 3GPP LTE systems, andorthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems.

Generally, a wireless multiple-access communication system cansimultaneously support communication for multiple wireless terminals.Each terminal communicates with one or more base stations viatransmissions on the forward and reverse links. The forward link (ordownlink) refers to the communication link from the base stations to theterminals, and the reverse link (or uplink) refers to the communicationlink from the terminals to the base stations. This communication linkmay be established via a single-in-single-out, multiple-in-signal-out ora multiple-in-multiple-out (MIMO) system.

A MIMO system employs multiple (N_(T)) transmit antennas and multiple(N_(R)) receive antennas for data transmission. A MIMO channel formed bythe N_(T) transmit and N_(R) receive antennas may be decomposed intoN_(S) independent channels, which are also referred to as spatialchannels, where N_(S)≦min{N_(T), N_(R)}. Each of the N_(s) independentchannels corresponds to a dimension. The MIMO system can provideimproved performance (e.g., higher throughput and/or greaterreliability) if the additional dimensionalities created by the multipletransmit and receive antennas are utilized.

A MIMO system supports a time division duplex (TDD) and frequencydivision duplex (FDD) systems. In a TDD system, the forward and reverselink transmissions are on the same frequency region so that thereciprocity principle allows the estimation of the forward link channelfrom the reverse link channel. This enables the access point to extracttransmit beamforming gain on the forward link when multiple antennas areavailable at the access point.

Referring to FIG. 4, a multiple access wireless communication systemaccording to one aspect is illustrated. An access point 350 (AP)includes multiple antenna groups, one including 354 and 356, anotherincluding 358 and 360, and an additional including 362 and 364. In FIG.4, only two antennas are shown for each antenna group, however, more orfewer antennas may be utilized for each antenna group. Access terminal(AT) 366 is in communication with antennas 362 and 364, where antennas362 and 364 transmit information to access terminal 366 over forwardlink 370 and receive information from access terminal 366 over reverselink 368. Access terminal 372 is in communication with antennas 356 and358, where antennas 356 and 358 transmit information to access terminal372 over forward link 376 and receive information from access terminal372 over reverse link 374. In a FDD system, communication links 368,370, 374 and 376 may use different frequency for communication. Forexample, forward link 370 may use a different frequency then that usedby reverse link 368. Each group of antennas and/or the area in whichthey are designed to communicate is often referred to as a sector of theaccess point 350. In the aspect, antenna groups each are designed tocommunicate to access terminals 366, 372 in a sector of the areascovered by access point 350.

In communication over forward links 370 and 376, the transmittingantennas of access point 350 utilize beamforming in order to improve thesignal-to-noise ratio of forward links for the different accessterminals 366 and 374. Also, an access point using beamforming totransmit to access terminals scattered randomly through its coveragecauses less interference to access terminals in neighboring cells thanan access point transmitting through a single antenna to all its accessterminals.

An access point 350 may be a fixed station used for communicating withthe terminals and may also be referred to as an access point, a Node B,or some other terminology. An access terminal 366, 372 may also becalled user equipment (UE), a wireless communication device, terminal,access terminal or some other terminology.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an aspect of a transmitter system 410 (alsoknown as the access point) and a receiver system 450 (also known asaccess terminal) in a MIMO system 400. At the transmitter system 410,traffic data for a number of data streams is provided from a data source412 to a transmit (TX) data processor 414.

In an aspect, each data stream is transmitted over a respective transmitantenna. TX data processor 414 formats, codes, and interleaves thetraffic data for each data stream based on a particular coding schemeselected for that data stream to provide coded data.

The coded data for each data stream may be multiplexed with pilot datausing OFDM techniques. The pilot data is typically a known data patternthat is processed in a known manner and may be used at the receiversystem to estimate the channel response. The multiplexed pilot and codeddata for each data stream is then modulated (i.e., symbol mapped) basedon a particular modulation scheme (e.g., BPSK, QSPK, M-PSK, or M-QAM)selected for that data stream to provide modulation symbols. The datarate, coding, and modulation for each data stream may be determined byinstructions performed by processor 430.

The modulation symbols for all data streams are then provided to a TXMIMO processor 420, which may further process the modulation symbols(e.g., for OFDM). TX MIMO processor 420 then provides N_(T) modulationsymbol streams to N_(T) transmitters (TMTR) 422 a through 422 t. Incertain implementations, TX MIMO processor 420 applies beamformingweights to the symbols of the data streams and to the antenna from whichthe symbol is being transmitted.

Each transmitter 422 receives and processes a respective symbol streamto provide one or more analog signals, and further conditions (e.g.,amplifies, filters, and upconverts) the analog signals to provide amodulated signal suitable for transmission over the MIMO channel. N_(T)modulated signals from transmitters 422 a through 422 t are thentransmitted from N_(T) antennas 424 a through 424 t, respectively.

At receiver system 450, the transmitted modulated signals are receivedby N_(R) antennas 452 a through 452 r and the received signal from eachantenna 452 is provided to a respective receiver (RCVR) 454 a through454 r. Each receiver 454 conditions (e.g., filters, amplifies, anddownconverts) a respective received signal, digitizes the conditionedsignal to provide samples, and further processes the samples to providea corresponding “received” symbol stream.

An RX data processor 460 then receives and processes the N_(R) receivedsymbol streams from N_(R) receivers 454 based on a particular receiverprocessing technique to provide N_(T) “detected” symbol streams. The RXdata processor 460 then demodulates, deinterleaves, and decodes eachdetected symbol stream to recover the traffic data for the data stream.The processing by RX data processor 460 is complementary to thatperformed by TX MIMO processor 420 and TX data processor 414 attransmitter system 410.

A processor 470 periodically determines which pre-coding matrix to use(discussed below). Processor 470 formulates a reverse link messagecomprising a matrix index portion and a rank value portion.

The reverse link message may comprise various types of informationregarding the communication link and/or the received data stream. Thereverse link message is then processed by a TX data processor 438, whichalso receives traffic data for a number of data streams from a datasource 436, modulated by a modulator 480, conditioned by transmitters454 a through 454 r, and transmitted back to transmitter system 410.

At transmitter system 410, the modulated signals from receiver system450 are received by antennas 424, conditioned by receivers 422,demodulated by a demodulator 440, and processed by a RX data processor442 to extract the reserve link message transmitted by the receiversystem 450. Processor 430 then determines which pre-coding matrix to usefor determining the beamforming weights then processes the extractedmessage.

In an aspect, logical channels are classified into Control Channels andTraffic Channels. Logical Control Channels comprises Broadcast ControlChannel (BCCH), which is DL channel for broadcasting system controlinformation. Paging Control Channel (PCCH), which is DL channel thattransfers paging information. Multicast Control Channel (MCCH) which isPoint-to-multipoint DL channel used for transmitting MultimediaBroadcast and Multicast Service (MBMS) scheduling and controlinformation for one or several MTCHs. Generally, after establishing RRCconnection this channel is only used by UEs that receive MBMS (Note: oldMCCH+MSCH). Dedicated Control Channel (DCCH) is Point-to-pointbi-directional channel that transmits dedicated control information andused by UEs having an RRC connection. In aspect, Logical TrafficChannels comprises a Dedicated Traffic Channel (DTCH), which isPoint-to-point bi-directional channel, dedicated to one UE, for thetransfer of user information. In addition, a Multicast Traffic Channel(MTCH) for Point-to-multipoint DL channel for transmitting traffic data.

In an aspect, Transport Channels are classified into DL and UL. DLTransport Channels comprises a Broadcast Channel (BCH), Downlink SharedData Channel (DL-SDCH) and a Paging Channel (PCH), the PCH for supportof UE power saving (DRX cycle is indicated by the network to the UE),broadcasted over entire cell and mapped to PHY resources which can beused for other control/traffic channels. The UL Transport Channelscomprises a Random Access Channel (RACH), a Request Channel (REQCH), anUplink Shared Data Channel (UL-SDCH) and plurality of PHY channels. ThePHY channels comprise a set of DL channels and UL channels.

The DL PHY channels comprises: Common Pilot Channel (CPICH);Synchronization Channel (SCH); Common Control Channel (CCCH); Shared DLControl Channel (SDCCH); Multicast Control Channel (MCCH); Shared ULAssignment Channel (SUACH); Acknowledgement Channel (ACKCH); DL PhysicalShared Data Channel (DL-PSDCH); UL Power Control Channel (UPCCH); PagingIndicator Channel (PICH); Load Indicator Channel (LICH); The UL PHYChannels comprises: Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH); ChannelQuality Indicator Channel (CQICH); Acknowledgement Channel (ACKCH);Antenna Subset Indicator Channel (ASICH); Shared Request Channel(SREQCH); UL Physical Shared Data Channel (UL-PSDCH); Broadband PilotChannel (BPICH).

In FIG. 6, a methodology 600 provides for User Equipment (UE) 602 isable to request uplink resources and interpret a random access response(RAR) from an evolved Base Node (eNB) 604. The RAR can have a fixedlength irrespective of system bandwidth, yet not lose information. Inorder to do this a resource block assignment for that uplink systembandwidth is expanded or contracted in order to fit in the RAR. The UE602 determines a number of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)) needed(block 610) and avails itself of a random access channel (RACH)procedure to make a request to the eNB 604 (block 612).

The physical L1 layer of the eNB 604 receives a fixed length randomaccess response (RAR) from an upper layer (block 614). A determinationis made as what length adjustment should be made to accommodate systembandwidth (block 616). A length adjustment to accommodate systembandwidth is made, such as by expanding/compressing a resource block(RB) assignment. This adjustment is made based upon the number of uplinkresource blocks so that information is not lost (block 618). Theadjusted length RAR is transmitted to the UE 602 (block 620).

The UE 602 detects the adjusted length of the RAR, and in anillustrative aspect detects the adjusted length of the RB assignment(block 622). Based upon information for the number of uplink resourceblocks, the original fixed-size RAR can be determined (block 624). TheL1 provides its upper layer the fixed-sized resource block assignment(block 626).

In one aspect, a methodology 900 is depicted in FIG. 7 for the RandomAccess Response. Processing by upper layer of the RAR indicates a 20-bituplink grant containing the following:

Hopping flag—1 bit;

Fixed size resource block assignment—10 bits

Truncated modulation and coding scheme—4 bits;

TPC command for scheduled PUSCH—3 bits;

UL delay—1 bit; and

CQI request—1 bit (block 902).

Given that N_(rb) ^(ul) is the number of uplink resource blocks, ifN_(rb) ^(ul)<=32, then truncate the Fixed size resource block assignmentto its b least significant bits where b=ceiling log₂((N_(rb)^(ul)*N_(rb) ^(ul)+1)/2) (block 904). Interpret the truncated resourceblock assignment according to the rules for a regular PDCCH grant (block906).

If N_(rb) ^(ul)>32, concatenate b bits with value set to ‘0’ as the mostsignificant bits with the Fixed size resource block assignment, whereb=ceiling log2((N_(rb) ^(ul)*N_(rb) ^(ul)+1)/2)−10 (block 908).Interpret the expanded resource block assignment according to the rulesfor a regular PDCCH grant.

In an aspect, a method to interpret the fixed size resource blockassignment provides that if N_(rb) ^(ul)>32: use the 9 least significantbits to interpret them as in a 5 MHz system (N_(rb) ^(ul)=25). The mostsignificant bit indicates if the 9-bit grant (above) starts at RB=0 orRB=32 (block 910).

The UE determines the 5 bit modulation and coding scheme and redundancyversion I_(MCS) by concatenation of ‘0’ as the most significant bit withthe received 4 bit Truncated MCS (block 912).

When an uplink grant is received in a Random Access Response, a newtransmission may be indicated to the higher layers (block 914).

In FIG. 8, a methodology 1000 for truncated random access response isdepicted. In resource allocations of type 2, the resource allocationinformation indicates to a scheduled UE a set of contiguously allocatedlocalized virtual resource blocks (VRBs) or distributed virtual resourceblocks depending on the setting of a 1-bit flag carried on theassociated PDCCH (block 1002). Localized VRB allocations for a UE varyfrom a single VRB up to a maximum number of VRBs spanning the systembandwidth. Distributed VRB allocations for a UE vary from a single VRBup to N_(rb) ^(dl) VRBs if N_(rb) ^(dl) is 6-49 and vary from a singleVRB up to 16 if N_(rb) ^(dl) is 50-110 (block 1004).

A type 2 resource allocation field consists of a resource indicationvalue (RIV) corresponding to a starting resource block (RB_(start)) anda length in terms of contiguously allocated resource blocks (L_(CRBs))(block 1006). In block 1008, the resource indication value is defined by

if (L _(CRBs)−1)≦└N _(RB) ^(DL)/2┘ then

RIV=N _(RB) ^(DL)(L _(CRBs)−1)+RB_(start)

else

RIV=N _(RB) ^(DL)(N _(RB) ^(DL) −L _(CRBs)+1)+(N _(RB)^(DL)−1−RB_(start))

In another aspect in block 1010, the higher layers process the RandomAccess Response and provide the following information to the physicallayer:

Hopping flag—1 bit;

Fixed size resource block assignment—10 bits;

Truncated modulation and coding scheme—4 bits;

TPC command for scheduled PUSCH—3 bits;

UL delay—1 bit;

CQI request—1 bit.

In relation to the UL grant corresponding to the Random Access Response.The fixed size resource block assignment field is interpreted asfollows:

if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44

Truncate the fixed size resource block assignment to its b leastsignificant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐, andinterpret the truncated resource block assignment according to the rulesfor a regular downlink control information (DCI) format 0 (block 1012)

else

Pre-append b bits with value set to ‘0’ to the fixed size resource blockassignment, where b=(┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), andinterpret the expanded resource block assignment according to the rulesfor a regular DCI format 0 (block 1014)

end if

The truncated modulation and coding scheme field is interpreted suchthat the modulation and coding scheme corresponding to the Random AccessResponse grant is determined from MCS indices 0 through 15 (block 1016).

In FIG. 9, an access terminal (e.g., user equipment) 1100 has computingplatform 1102 that provides means for causing a computer to decode afixed length random access response coded for limited system bandwidthreceived from a base node (FIG. 12). In particular, the computingplatform 1102 comprises sets of instructions or code (modules) 1104-1112executable by a processor 1114 that also controls transmission andreception by a transceiver (“Tx/Rx”) 1116. In particular, means (module)1104 are provided for transmitting a random access channel request foraccess to an uplink channel. Means (module) 1106 are provided forreceiving a random access response on a downlink control channel. Means(module) 1108 are provided for detecting an adjusted-length resourceblock assignment whose length was adjusted to accommodate systembandwidth. Means (module) 1110 are provided for decoding a resourceblock assignment of length based upon the number of uplink resourceblocks. Means (module) 1112 are provided for decoding a truncatedModulation & Coding Scheme (MCS) from 4 bits to the original 5 bits.

In FIG. 10, an evolved Base Node (eNB) 1200 has computing platform 1202that provides means for causing a computer to encode a fixed lengthrandom access response coded for limited system bandwidth. Inparticular, the computing platform 1202 comprises sets of instructionsor code (modules) 1204-1213 executable by a processor 1214 that alsocontrols transmission and reception by a transceiver (“Tx/Rx”) 1216. Inparticular, means (module) 1204 are provided for receiving a randomaccess channel request for access to an uplink channel. Means (module)1206 are provided for determining a number of uplink resource blocks anda system bandwidth. Means (module) 1208 are provided for determining afixed size random access response. Means (module) 1210 are provided forencoding a portion of the fixed-size random access response based uponthe number of uplink resource blocks with length based upon systembandwidth. Means (module) 1212 are provided for transmitting theadjusted-length random access response on a downlink control channel.Means (module) 1213 are provided for encoding an original Modulation &Coding Scheme (MCS) from 5 bits to a truncated 4 bits.

What has been described above includes examples of the various aspects.It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combinationof components or methodologies for purposes of describing the variousaspects, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that manyfurther combinations and permutations are possible. Accordingly, thesubject specification intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope ofthe appended claims.

In particular and in regard to the various functions performed by theabove described components, devices, circuits, systems and the like, theterms (including a reference to a “means”) used to describe suchcomponents are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, toany component which performs the specified function of the describedcomponent (e.g., a functional equivalent), even though not structurallyequivalent to the disclosed structure, which performs the function inthe herein illustrated exemplary aspects. In this regard, it will alsobe recognized that the various aspects include a system as well as acomputer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions forperforming the acts and/or events of the various methods.

In addition, while a particular feature may have been disclosed withrespect to only one of several implementations, such feature may becombined with one or more other features of the other implementations asmay be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.To the extent that the terms “includes,” and “including” and variantsthereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, theseterms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term“comprising.” Furthermore, the term “or” as used in either the detaileddescription of the claims is meant to be a “non-exclusive or”.

Furthermore, as will be appreciated, various portions of the disclosedsystems and methods may include or consist of artificial intelligence,machine learning, or knowledge or rule based components, sub-components,processes, means, methodologies, or mechanisms (e.g., support vectormachines, neural networks, expert systems, Bayesian belief networks,fuzzy logic, data fusion engines, classifiers . . . ). Such components,inter alia, can automate certain mechanisms or processes performedthereby to make portions of the systems and methods more adaptive aswell as efficient and intelligent. By way of example and not limitation,the evolved RAN (e.g., access point, eNode B) can infer or predict whena robust or augmented check field has been employed.

In view of the exemplary systems described supra, methodologies that maybe implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter have beendescribed with reference to several flow diagrams. While for purposes ofsimplicity of explanation, the methodologies are shown and described asa series of blocks, it is to be understood and appreciated that theclaimed subject matter is not limited by the order of the blocks, assome blocks may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with otherblocks from what is depicted and described herein. Moreover, not allillustrated blocks may be required to implement the methodologiesdescribed herein. Additionally, it should be further appreciated thatthe methodologies disclosed herein are capable of being stored on anarticle of manufacture to facilitate transporting and transferring suchmethodologies to computers. The term article of manufacture, as usedherein, is intended to encompass a computer program accessible from anycomputer-readable device, carrier, or media.

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or otherdisclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to beincorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to theextent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existingdefinitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in thisdisclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure asexplicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting materialincorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, thatis said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts withexisting definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forthherein, will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arisesbetween that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of wireless communication, comprising:receiving an uplink grant including a resource block assignment; andinterpreting the resource block assignment with a length adjustmentbased on an uplink bandwidth configuration.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the interpreting the resource block assignment includesinterpreting a fixed size resource block assignment that is truncated orexpanded based on the uplink bandwidth configuration.
 3. The method ofclaim 2, wherein the uplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to anumber of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein theinterpreting the resource block assignment includes: if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44,truncating the fixed size resource block assignment to its b leastsignificant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐, andinterpreting the truncated resource block assignment according to rulesfor a regular downlink control information (DCI) format 0, if N_(RB)^(UL)>44, inserting b bits with value set to ‘0’ to the fixed sizeresource block assignment, where b=(┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB)^(UL)+1)/ 2)┐−10), and interpreting the expanded resource blockassignment according to the rules for the regular DCI format
 0. 4. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising detecting on a physical layer thata new transmission is requested when the uplink grant is received in arandom access response (RAR).
 5. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising interpreting the uplink grant to satisfy a format of a 1-bitfrequency hopping flag, a 10-bits fixed size resource block assignment,a 4-bits truncated modulation and coding scheme, a 3-bits transmit powercontrol (TPC) for scheduled physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), a1-bit uplink delay, and a 1-bit channel quality indicator (CQI) request.6. The method of claim 1, further comprising interpreting a truncatedmodulation and coding scheme (MCS), in the uplink grant, as indices 0-15omitting a highest modulation.
 7. An apparatus for wirelesscommunication, comprising: at least one processor configured to: receivean uplink grant including a resource block assignment, and interpret theresource block assignment with a length adjustment based on an uplinkbandwidth configuration; and a memory coupled to the at least oneprocessor.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the at least oneprocessor is configured to interpret a fixed size resource blockassignment that is truncated or expanded based on the uplink bandwidthconfiguration.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the uplink bandwidthconfiguration corresponds to a number of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB)^(UL)); wherein the at least one processor is configured to interpretthe resource block assignment by: if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44, truncate the fixedsize resource block assignment to its b least significant bits, whereb=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐, and interpret the truncatedresource block assignment according to rules for a regular downlinkcontrol information (DCI) format 0, if N_(RB) ^(UL)>44, insert b bitswith value set to ‘0’ to the fixed size resource block assignment, whereb=(┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), and interpret theexpanded resource block assignment according to the rules for theregular DCI format
 0. 10. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the at leastone processor is configured to detect on a physical layer that a newtransmission is requested when the uplink grant is received in a randomaccess response (RAR).
 11. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the atleast one processor is configured to interpret the uplink grant tosatisfy a format of a 1-bit frequency hopping flag, a 10-bits fixed sizeresource block assignment, a 4-bits truncated modulation and codingscheme, a 3-bits transmit power control (TPC) for scheduled physicaluplink shared channel (PUSCH), a 1-bit uplink delay, and a 1-bit channelquality indicator (CQI) request.
 12. The apparatus of claim 7, whereinthe at least one processor is configured to interpret a truncatedmodulation and coding scheme (MCS), in the uplink grant, as indices 0-15omitting a highest modulation.
 13. An apparatus for wirelesscommunication, comprising: means for receiving an uplink grant includinga resource block assignment; and means for interpreting the resourceblock assignment with a length adjustment based on an uplink bandwidthconfiguration.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means forinterpreting the resource block assignment includes means forinterpreting a fixed size resource block assignment that is truncated orexpanded based on the uplink bandwidth configuration.
 15. The apparatusof claim 14, wherein the uplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to anumber of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein the means forinterpreting the resource block assignment includes: if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44,means for truncating the fixed size resource block assignment to its bleast significant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB)^(UL)+1)/2)┐, and means for interpreting the truncated resource blockassignment according to rules for a regular downlink control information(DCI) format 0, if N_(RB) ^(UL)>44, means for inserting b bits withvalue set to ‘0’ to the fixed size resource block assignment, where b=(┌log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), and means for interpretingthe expanded resource block assignment according to the rules for theregular DCI format
 0. 16. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprisingmeans for interpreting the uplink grant to satisfy a format of a 1-bitfrequency hopping flag, a 10-bits fixed size resource block assignment,a 4-bits truncated modulation and coding scheme, a 3-bits transmit powercontrol (TPC) for scheduled physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), a1-bit uplink delay, and a 1-bit channel quality indicator (CQI) request.17. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising means for interpretinga truncated modulation and coding scheme (MCS), in the uplink grant, asindices 0-15 omitting a highest modulation.
 18. A computer programproduct, comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium thatincludes: code for causing at least one computer to receive an uplinkgrant including a resource block assignment, and code for causing the atleast one computer to interpret the resource block assignment with alength adjustment based on an uplink bandwidth configuration.
 19. Thecomputer program product of claim 18, wherein the code for causing theat least one computer to interpret the resource block assignmentincludes code for causing the at least one computer to interpret a fixedsize resource block assignment that is truncated or expanded based onthe uplink bandwidth configuration.
 20. The computer program product ofclaim 19, wherein the uplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to anumber of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein the code forcausing the at least one computer to interpret the resource blockassignment includes code for causing the at least one computer to: ifN_(RB) ^(UL)≦44, truncate the fixed size resource block assignment toits b least significant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB)^(UL)+1)/2)┐, and interpret the truncated resource block assignmentaccording to rules for a regular downlink control information (DCI)format 0, if N_(RB) ^(UL)>44, insert b bits with value set to ‘0’ to thefixed size resource block assignment, where b=(┌ log₂(N_(RB)^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), and interpret the expanded resourceblock assignment according to the rules for the regular DCI format 0.21. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the non-transitorycomputer-readable medium includes code for causing the at least onecomputer to interpret the uplink grant to satisfy a format of a 1-bitfrequency hopping flag, a 10-bits fixed size resource block assignment,a 4-bits truncated modulation and coding scheme, a 3-bits transmit powercontrol (TPC) for scheduled physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), a1-bit uplink delay, and a 1-bit channel quality indicator (CQI) request.22. The computer program product of claim 18, wherein the non-transitorycomputer-readable medium includes code for causing the at least onecomputer to interpret a truncated modulation and coding scheme (MCS), inthe uplink grant, as indices 0-15 omitting a highest modulation.
 23. Amethod for wireless communication, comprising: determining a lengthadjustment for an uplink grant, the length adjustment being based on anuplink bandwidth configuration; encoding a resource block assignmentbased on the length adjustment; and transmitting the uplink grantincluding the resource block assignment.
 24. The method of claim 23,wherein the uplink grant is transmitted in a random access response(RAR).
 25. The method of claim 23, further comprising encoding theuplink grant to satisfy a format of a 1-bit frequency hopping flag, a10-bits fixed size resource block assignment, a 4-bits truncatedmodulation and coding scheme, a 3-bits transmit power control (TPC) forscheduled physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), a 1-bit uplink delay,and a 1-bit channel quality indicator (CQI) request.
 26. The method ofclaim 23, wherein the uplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to anumber of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein the resourceblock assignment is encoded in such a manner so as to be interpreted as:if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44, truncate a fixed size resource block assignment toits b least significant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB)^(UL)+1)/2)┐, and interpret the truncated resource block assignmentaccording to rules for a regular downlink control information (DCI)format 0, if N_(RB) ^(UL)>44, insert b bits with value set to ‘0’ to thefixed size resource block assignment, where b=(┌ log₂(N_(RB)^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), and interpret the expanded resourceblock assignment according to the rules for the regular DCI format 0.27. The method of claim 23, further comprising truncating a modulationand coding scheme (MCS), in the uplink grant, as indices 0-15 omitting ahighest modulation.
 28. An apparatus for wireless communication,comprising: at least one processor configured to: determine a lengthadjustment for an uplink grant, the length adjustment being based on anuplink bandwidth configuration, encode a resource block assignment basedon the length adjustment, and transmit the uplink grant including theresource block assignment; and a memory coupled to the at least oneprocessor.
 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the at least oneprocessor is configured to encode the uplink grant to satisfy a formatof a 1-bit frequency hopping flag, a 10-bits fixed size resource blockassignment, a 4-bits truncated modulation and coding scheme, a 3-bitstransmit power control (TPC) for scheduled physical uplink sharedchannel (PUSCH), a 1-bit uplink delay, and a 1-bit channel qualityindicator (CQI) request.
 30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein theuplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to a number of uplinkresource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein the at least one processor isconfigured to encode the resource block assignment in such a manner soas to be interpreted as: if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44, truncate a fixed sizeresource block assignment to its b least significant bits, where b=┌log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐, and interpret the truncatedresource block assignment according to rules for a regular downlinkcontrol information (DCI) format 0, if N_(RB) ^(UL)>44, insert b bitswith value set to ‘0’ to the fixed size resource block assignment, whereb=(┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), and interpret theexpanded resource block assignment according to the rules for theregular DCI format
 0. 31. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the atleast one processor is configured to truncate a modulation and codingscheme (MCS), in the uplink grant, as indices 0-15 omitting a highestmodulation.
 32. A computer program product, comprising a non-transitorycomputer-readable medium that includes: code for causing at least onecomputer to determine a length adjustment for an uplink grant, thelength adjustment being based on an uplink bandwidth configuration, codefor causing the at least one computer to encode a resource blockassignment based on the length adjustment, and code for causing the atleast one computer to transmit the uplink grant including the resourceblock assignment.
 33. The computer program product of claim 32, whereinthe non-transitory computer-readable medium includes code for causingthe at least one computer to encode the uplink grant to satisfy a formatof a 1-bit frequency hopping flag, a 10-bits fixed size resource blockassignment, a 4-bits truncated modulation and coding scheme, a 3-bitstransmit power control (TPC) for scheduled physical uplink sharedchannel (PUSCH), a 1-bit uplink delay, and a 1-bit channel qualityindicator (CQI) request.
 34. The computer program product of claim 32,wherein the uplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to a number ofuplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein the non-transitorycomputer-readable medium includes code for causing the at least onecomputer to encode the resource block assignment in such a manner so asto be interpreted as: if N_(RB) ^(UL)≦44, truncate a fixed size resourceblock assignment to its b least significant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB)^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐, and interpret the truncated resource blockassignment according to rules for a regular downlink control information(DCI) format 0, if N_(RB) ^(UL)>44, insert b bits with value set to ‘0’to the fixed size resource block assignment, where b=(┌ log₂(N_(RB)^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10), and interpret the expanded resourceblock assignment according to the rules for the regular DCI format 0.35. The computer program product of claim 32, wherein the non-transitorycomputer-readable medium includes code for causing the at least onecomputer to truncate a modulation and coding scheme (MCS), in the uplinkgrant, as indices 0-15 omitting a highest modulation.
 36. An apparatusfor wireless communication, comprising: means for determining a lengthadjustment for an uplink grant, the length adjustment being based on anuplink bandwidth configuration; means for encoding a resource blockassignment based on the length adjustment; and means for transmittingthe uplink grant including the resource block assignment.
 37. Theapparatus of claim 36, further comprising means for encoding the uplinkgrant to satisfy a format of a 1-bit frequency hopping flag, a 10-bitsfixed size resource block assignment, a 4-bits truncated modulation andcoding scheme, a 3-bits transmit power control (TPC) for scheduledphysical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), a 1-bit uplink delay, and a1-bit channel quality indicator (CQI) request.
 38. The apparatus ofclaim 36, wherein the uplink bandwidth configuration corresponds to anumber of uplink resource blocks (N_(RB) ^(UL)); wherein the means forencoding the resource block assignment encodes the resource blockassignment in such a manner so as to be interpreted as: if N_(RB)^(UL)≦44, truncate a fixed size resource block assignment to its b leastsignificant bits, where b=┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐, andinterpret the truncated resource block assignment according to rules fora regular downlink control information (DCI) format 0, if N_(RB)^(UL)>44, insert b bits with value set to ‘0’ to the fixed size resourceblock assignment, where b=(┌ log₂(N_(RB) ^(UL)·(N_(RB) ^(UL)+1)/2)┐−10),and interpret the expanded resource block assignment according to therules for the regular DCI format 0.